Letters: The cost of PFIs

Sir: I read with interest the statement by Alistair Milburn, Chief Secretary to the Treasury, that "to get good people, you have to pay good salaries" ("PFI to be boosted by City experts", 23 July). Perhaps if that revolutionary concept were to be applied to the NHS, for example, the service might be run more efficiently and deliver better value for money. If the private sector believed they could best serve their shareholders by paying staff at public sector rates, they would presumably do so.

STEPHEN LOWE WATSON

Lewes, East Sussex